The 52-year-old, who lost his job as FC Twente manager last February, has now taken a bold step by opting to accept a role outside of frontline management, as he returns to the first-team coach position he thrived in during his time as Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant at Manchester United.

"I am delighted to have been able to bring Steve in," Redknapp told QPR's official website. "Everyone in the game knows what a top coach he is and he'll add something different to the group, regardless of how long he is with us for.

"This is a very important season for us and I wanted to look at freshening up the whole place, not just the playing side. I want new ideas, different opinions and another experienced head to speak to.
That's what Steve brings.

"Along with Kevin [Bond] and Joe [Jordan], I've got a brilliant backroom team and their input is going to be so important for me this season. Steve adds to the excellent staff I already have here."

McClaren revealed he is keen to return to a management position in the future, but that it was his eagerness to get back into the game that persuaded him to take on the role.

"I'm delighted to take up this position offered to me by Harry and QPR," McClaren said. "Whilst it still remains my ambition to manage again this gives me an ideal opportunity to stay involved and work on the field with one of the top managers in this country and a very ambitious club.

"Rest assured, I'll be doing all I can for Harry, the club and the fans to help QPR return to the Premier League."